37. Trash Talk for Your Airbnb: Waste Management Tips

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Hey, it’s Brittany! Today we’re tackling one of the least glamorous—but most critical—parts of running a short-term rental: trash management. I know, it’s not the hot tub or the Instagram-worthy décor, but it’s a behind-the-scenes system that can make or break your guest experience and your reviews.

From knowing how local trash service works before you even buy a property, to setting up systems so guests never wonder where to toss a banana peel, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned (the hard way) about handling garbage like a pro.

You’ll hear real-world stories from my own properties and my clients’—including raccoon break-ins, maggot disasters, and the guest who tried to charge me $5 for taking out the trash. This episode will help you prevent avoidable complaints, keep your neighbors happy, and maintain a 5-star cleanliness rating.

🔑 Key Takeaways for STR Quality Control

• Do your homework before buying
  
  




• Is trash collection included in taxes or do you need a private vendor?
  
  


• How often is trash picked up? Weekly or biweekly recycling?
  
  


• Does the trash truck even service the property location?
  
  




• Match capacity to your guest load
  
  




• Large homes = more trash.
  
  


• Add extra bins for properties with 8+ guests to avoid overflow and review dings.
  
  




• Label your bins clearly
  
  




• Not all towns use color-coded lids.
  
  


• Guests appreciate clear recycling instructions.
  
  




• Assign bin duty
  
  




• Decide who will roll bins out and back—guests, cleaners, neighbors, or a trash service.
  
  


• Budget for extra pay if cleaners handle it.
  
  




• Set rules for what goes in the trash
  
  




• Ban items like fish carcasses or large objects that attract pests or cause smells.
  
  


• Consider signage on bins for clear guest guidelines.
  
  

🎧 Why Listen to This Episode?

Because trash isn’t glamorous—but it’s essential. Getting it wrong costs you time, money, and 5-star reviews. Getting it right keeps guests happy, neighbors quiet, and your property running smoothly without last-minute scrambles.

📌 Mentioned in the Episode

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• Link: PriceLabs




• Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST




• Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course

• Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
  
  

🤝 Let’s Connect

Thinking about improving your Airbnb’s trash system? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your setup! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.

🛠 Work With Me

Want to start or scale your own short-term rental business? Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator to learn how to find, launch, and manage your STRs with confidence.

⏱ Chapters

00:00 – Why Trash Management Matters
01:36 – The Three Pre-Purchase Trash Questions
06:50 – City vs. Rural Trash Realities
11:12 – When Trash Service Isn’t an Option
13:50 – Matching Bin Capacity to Guest Count
15:50 – Labeling & Recycling Rules
17:20 – Who Rolls the Bins Out?
21:25 – Rural Property Trash Solutions
26:20 – What Can & Can’t Go in the Bins
29:20 – Trash Done Right vs. Trash Done Wrong
30:18 – Building Trash Costs Into Your STR Budget

🔁 Subscribe and Share

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap on your favorite podcast platform and share it with a fellow host who needs a trash system upgrade!